Teeth Whitening FAQs

What Tooth Whitening choices do I have?

There are different ways to whiten and brighten your smile. The two main choices are at-home tooth whitening and in-office professional teeth whitening in our Toronto cosmetic dentist office. Dr. Charles Botbol and our highly educated and trained team have professionally whitened the teeth of thousands of patients in and around Toronto and North York areas.

What is Chair-side Bleaching?

Chair-side bleaching can be done in various ways. A peroxide-based gel is applied to /our teeth by one of our trained professionals. Most gels are self-activating (Boost); others are activated by the use of a curing light (Zoom). The laser, itself, does not whiten (he teeth. It only activates the bleaching gel and initiates a chemical reaction that produces the whitening effect. Our most popular professional tooth whitening product is Zoom 2 and Boost whitening. We also have a take home kit that you will receive to further whiten your teeth as well as maintain your bright new smile. Research indicates that tooth whitening shows no changes to the surface of the tooth enamel when our products are used. Electron microscope studies show that there is no damage to the tooth enamel whatsoever.

What are the Side Effects?

Bleaching gels do cause some tooth sensitivity, which may cause very mild discomfort. This sensitivity is never permanent and goes away within 1-3 days of when you finish whitening. We will customize your treatment so as to minimize or completely eliminate any sensitivity. Some brands of bleaching gel contain desensitizing agents that help to alleviate post-bleaching sensitivity. Using a desensitizing toothpaste like Sensodyne or Prevident 5000 will help minimize discomfort.

How long does it take before I see results?

Immediately after bleaching, the color of your teeth will typically fade and then remain stable for approximately six months to a year. For maintenance purposes, it is recommended that you touch up your smile every 4-6 months with 1-3 sessions of at home whitening with your complimentary home kit that comes with your Chair-side whitening.

Will Teeth Whitening make my Porcelain Veneers whiter?

All bleaching agents used to whiten teeth will only work on natural tooth structure. This means that all dental work including but not limited to bonding, veneers, crowns and bridges will not whiten.